Design Engineer - Senior Design Engineer, Mechanisms

ZipRecruiter; Midland (KS); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative company is seeking a Design Engineer (Mechanisms) to play a crucial role in developing the first space-based cellular broadband network. This exciting position involves designing and optimizing mechanisms for satellite deployment, contributing to both new and ongoing projects. The ideal candidate will thrive in a dynamic environment, utilizing their mechanical engineering expertise to solve complex challenges and enhance system performance. Join a forward-thinking team dedicated to revolutionizing global connectivity through cutting-edge technology.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in mechanical design for spacecraft or launch vehicles.
• Strong skills in designing satellite mechanisms for launch and on-orbit environments.

Responsibilities

• Design and analyze mechanism architecture for multi-satellite launch configurations.
• Develop and maintain mechanical design documentation and testing requirements.

Skills

Mechanical Design

CAD Software

Stress Analysis

Dynamics Analysis

Team Collaboration

Root-Cause Analysis

Communication Skills

Flexibility

Education

Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering

Master's in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

FEA Programs

Job description

Job Description

AST SpaceMobile and our global partners are building the first and only space-based cellular broadband network accessible by standard smartphones. Called SpaceMobile, this ultra-powerful network aims to provide connectivity at 4G/5G speeds everywhere on the planet – on land, at sea, and in flight.

Summary:

The successful Design Engineer (Mechanisms) will be responsible for designing and optimizing various space-flight mechanisms for deploying a satellite constellation. The Engineer will contribute to both non-recurring and recurring/sustaining activities related to mechanisms and system delivery to spacecraft integration & testing.

The ideal candidate will be innovative, creative, and willing to challenge the status quo. They should work well in teams and also be capable of working independently on assignments.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Participate in and execute design, analysis, and system trade studies to determine mechanism architecture for multi-satellite launch configurations, focusing on system simplicity, mass efficiency, launch vehicle accommodation, and production cost.
• Design and evaluate projects using sound engineering principles, adhering to business standards, practices, procedures, and program requirements.
• Develop mechanisms and component technology, testing requirements, materials, processes, and tools; define mechanical interfaces with other subsystems.
• Develop and maintain mechanical design documentation at system and equipment levels, including requirement documents, interface control drawings, test procedures, tooling (vibration, shock, TVAC, assembly), and manufacturing drawings.
• Prepare and present information necessary for design and readiness reviews with management and peers.
• Troubleshoot and investigate anomalies and failures, perform root-cause analysis, and provide resolutions.
• Coordinate with manufacturing to ensure successful transfer of information and understanding of processes.
• Evaluate and adopt new technologies and methods.

Minimum Qualifications:

• At least 2 years of hands-on experience in mechanical design and analysis of mechanisms for spacecraft or launch vehicles.
• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related technical field.
• Strong skills in designing satellite mechanisms for launch and on-orbit environments, with an emphasis on manufacturability.
• Experience with CAD software.
• Knowledge of stress and dynamics for satellite assemblies in launch and orbital environments.
• Experience in mechanism development and testing for space hardware.
• Ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams.
• Flexibility and adaptability in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• U.S. citizenship or Permanent Residency.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with FEA programs.
• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.

AST SpaceMobile is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment is based on merit, competence, and qualifications. We do not discriminate based on veteran status, race, marital status, mental or physical disability, or other legally protected categories.